Sole Revival

The minimalist marathoner’s mantra? Less is more. Ah, but the making of the Minimus, New Balance’s ultra-lightweight road shoe, was anything but simple. Nearly 100 runners — recreational and pro alike — helped perfect the kicks in the company’s Sports Research Lab in Lawrence. The result is a 6.6-ounce sneaker (8.2 ounces for the men’s) with incredibly smart details. A widened toe box lets the midfoot expand when it hits the ground, and a thin, flexible sole heightens sensation underfoot — a must for those who want to adjust their form away from a heel strike and into a more neutral position. And while such tech geekery makes us antsy to hit the pavement, it’s actually the slick, old-school design that has us lacing up again and again.